Ben B. Long, 21, of South Whitehall Township, recently was named executive director of the Lehigh County Republican Committee. The appointment came after Long, a DeSales University junior and 2012 graduate of Parkland High School, worked with the committee as an intern last summer. He is the subject of this week's Q&A.

Ben B. Long, 21, of South Whitehall Township, recently was named executive director of the Lehigh County Republican Committee. The appointment came after Long, a DeSales University junior and 2012 graduate of Parkland High School, worked with the committee as an intern last summer. He is the subject of this week's Q&A. (CONTRIBUTED PHOTO, THE MORNING CALL)

What makes the 21-year-old executive director of the Lehigh County Republican Committee tick?

Ben B. Long, 21, of South Whitehall Township, recently was named executive director of the Lehigh County Republican Committee. The appointment came after Long, a DeSales University junior and 2012 graduate of Parkland High School, worked with the committee as an intern last summer. He is the subject of this week's Q&A.

Q: Where does your interest in politics come from?

A: My first real political experience was attending a rally for President Bush's reelection campaign in '04; I was hooked right then and there. I remember seeing the excitement on the faces of people in the crowd and I knew that there was just something about it I would fall in love with.

Q: Who are your political role models?

A: I could name quite a few local politicians who have contributed to my success, but for fear of leaving someone out I will stick with one extraordinary man, LCRC Chairman Bill Heydt. He is without a doubt the person I look up to most in politics. He is always thinking three steps ahead of everyone else. Bill knows what needs to get done and does it. He is a no-nonsense kind of guy, which is a characteristic that I greatly admire. There is no one else I rather have as a boss than him.

Q: Do you come from a long line of Republicans?

A: Yes and no. My dad is a current Parkland school board member and longtime Republican. In contrast, my mom's side is the blue dog, Democratic type. My maternal grandfather was a union president in Allentown, so he was not a fan of the Republican Party.

Q: Does your strong political interest make you unusual among your friends?

A: My interest in politics is definitely not something that is common among 21-year-olds. I actually had voter registration forms ready to hand out at my high school graduation party – that alone should prove to you my uncommon passion for politics! However, since I have always been political, that is how my friends know me. I am partially defined among them by my political involvement and they have accepted me regardless of that. For the most part though, I try to stay away from talking politics to my friends because I believe friendship trumps political perspective every time. They each know where I stand and if they have questions they know I am a reputable source to ask.

Q: Why do you suppose your generation isn't more politically engaged?

A: Honestly, I ask myself that question all the time. I think politics has become so polarized, which has greatly disheartened a lot of young people. It is important to take a stand in what you believe. However, that can be done in much more gracious ways than it is currently being done by our politicians. Our political system has become very white or black, leaving very little room for discussion. I believe that needs to change in order to engage my generation. It is not that politicians should not take a stand on certain issues; it is that we must make more room for discussion and recognize we are not always right. Republicans especially need to realize all that we have in common, instead of what makes us different as a party. Traditional conservatives and the tea party folks have much more in common than they give themselves credit for.

Q: As executive director, you have a big job and little experience behind you. Do you find that intimidating?

A: I have been involved in the political process since 2010, but I still have a lot to learn. I am certainly ambitious. However, I recognize the importance of learning from others. That is why I am thankful for the guidance of politicians like Heydt and many others who have taught me a lot along the way and will continue to do so. People ask me, 'How do you know what you know?' And the answer is quite simple: I ask a lot of questions. I am not afraid of correction and realize I do not have all the answers. I am very excited to have this opportunity, and I look forward to grow, learn and help foster an even more united Republican Party.

Q: What interests do you have beyond politics?

A: My love of Jesus will always come before my love of politics – as will my love for family. As much as I desire to continue to pursue my political dreams, I realize my plans often pale in comparison to what God has in store for my life. I always go back to the verse in Jeremiah 29:11, 'For I know the plans I have for you declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.' Beyond faith and family, I love to spend time laughing, go to the movie theater, conversing with just about anyone, and spend time in my summer garden.

Q: What kind of music do you listen to?

A: Hands down my favorite artist is Frank Sinatra, I am old school that way. Beyond that I like a lot of Christian music such as David Crowder, Rend Collective Experiment, and All Sons and Daughters.

Q: If your dreams come true, will you be running for president of the United States some day?

A: One step at a time! Right now I am focused on doing my job as executive director to the best of my ability. I will continue to pursue my dreams in politics and if that door opens I will walk through, but if not then it wasn't meant to be. If all goes well in the foreseeable future I would love to run for local office so be on the lookout for that! Until then, one step, one day, one moment at a time, is my motto for life.